If you’re an aspiring board director, non-executive director (NED), or even looking to join an advisory board, it’s essential to stand out in the competitive market. Here are some key tips on how to position yourself for future board opportunities and differentiate yourself from the crowd.
1. Optimise Your LinkedIn Profile for Board Roles
The first step is to incorporate board director information into your LinkedIn headline and About section. If your profile only highlights your current role (e.g., Chief Marketing Officer or Chief Financial Officer), you’re missing a crucial opportunity to market yourself as a board candidate. Including board director terminology and your value proposition as a potential board member is essential for both keyword search purposes and ensuring you’re presenting yourself effectively.
Board search consultants and fellow board members need to see how you position yourself for future board roles. If they don’t see this in your profile, they might overlook you as a serious candidate.
2. Leverage Testimonials and Recommendations
Another critical mistake is failing to include testimonials and recommendations from your peers. Board-level testimonials, particularly from chairs and other board directors, not only build credibility but also impact LinkedIn’s search algorithm. If you don’t have raving fans who can endorse you, it may signal that you’re not yet ready for board roles.
Start reaching out to those who can speak to your leadership, governance experience, and ability to contribute at a strategic level. Written endorsements on LinkedIn or in your resume can significantly help you secure meetings, as they provide social proof of your capability.
3. Showcase Your Board Director Credentials
Don’t forget to highlight your board director credentials. This includes formal governance training, certifications, and any previous board appointments. As you gain more board experience, make sure it’s reflected on your LinkedIn profile. Building momentum is key, and the more visible your governance experience is, the more appealing you’ll be to search consultants and boards.
Additionally, showcasing your education and other relevant qualifications is crucial. It demonstrates your commitment to governance and signals that you’re continuously improving your expertise in the field.
4. Evolve Your Digital Presence Early
Many aspiring board members make the mistake of waiting until they secure a board seat to update their profile. Instead, start evolving your digital presence early. Your LinkedIn profile, resume, and online presence should reflect your desire to join a board, even before you land your first appointment.
By doing so, you show that you understand how to leverage digital, social, and business media effectively. This demonstrates forward-thinking and that you’re serious about securing board opportunities. It also allows you to begin networking with other board directors and sharing thought leadership, which can attract future opportunities.
5. Position Yourself as a Next-Generation Board Director
One of the best ways to differentiate yourself is to position yourself as a next-generation board director with a strong, compelling digital profile. This sets you apart from the “old guard” and highlights your understanding of modern governance, digital transformation, and business strategy.
By controlling your message to market and presenting yourself as a modern, forward-thinking board member, you increase your chances of being noticed by the right people.
6. Start Building Your Board Portfolio Now
Finally, it’s essential to take action now. Don’t wait for your first board appointment to position yourself as a board director. Begin developing your profile, establishing your network, and sharing your thought leadership. Clients who undergo a board director makeover and start using the right terminology often receive inquiries about board opportunities within weeks.
By optimising your profile, leveraging testimonials, and building a strong network, you’re laying the groundwork for future board appointments. This can lead to opportunities to expand your board portfolio and secure the types of roles you aspire to.
Final Thoughts
Differentiating yourself as a non-executive director or aspiring board member requires a strategic approach to your online presence and how you market yourself. By incorporating board-specific language, gathering strong endorsements, showcasing your credentials, and actively evolving your digital profile, you can stand out and attract opportunities more effectively.